Recent advances in mesoporous metal-organic frameworks

Highly porous and crystalline metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted widespread attention and have significant potential for applications in many fields. However, the microporous structure of most existing MOFs has been found to be disadvantageous with regard to mass transfer and the availability of active sites. Hence, the creation of mesopores in MOFs is of interest. This review focuses on recent advances in the study of mesoporous MOFs (mesoMOFs), as reported since 2013. These materials are classified as either intrinsic or extrinsic, according to the source of the mesopores. Intrinsic mesoMOFs are obtained from the extension, configuration design or mixing of ligands. In contrast, extrinsic mesoMOFs are synthesized by modulating the growth of crystals to introduce larger pores derived from defects and assemblies into the final product. This review also discusses specific applications of mesoMOFs, including catalysis, gas storage and adsorption, and liquid phase adsorption. Finally, the authors’ personal opinions concerning future research directions and challenges are provided.